Minister of Information and Media, and Government Spokesperson, Cornelius Mweetwa, has reiterated that the government will not unilaterally impose the proposed constitutional amendments on citizens if they fail to garner broad consensus among stakeholders. He emphasized that the government’s role in this process is merely facilitative, ensuring that necessary legal and procedural frameworks are in place to allow stakeholders to deliberate on the proposed changes.
Speaking at a media briefing, Mr. Mweetwa clarified that the proposed amendments are not an overhaul of the entire Constitution but rather targeted modifications to specific clauses that require urgent attention. These include electoral reforms, governance structures, and other legal provisions that have raised concerns in recent years. He assured the public that the government remains committed to upholding democratic principles and will not proceed with any amendments that lack broad-based acceptance among key stakeholders, including political parties, civil society organizations, and the general public.
No Legal Barriers to Amendments Before Elections
Amid criticism from certain quarters, Mr. Mweetwa dismissed allegations that the government’s push for constitutional amendments is an attempt to manipulate the electoral process ahead of the next general elections. He argued that there is no legal provision barring constitutional amendments before an election, and as such, opposition to the process on that basis is misguided and unfounded.
He further explained that constitutional amendments are a normal and necessary aspect of governance, particularly when aspects of the supreme law of the land are deemed to be problematic or ineffective in addressing contemporary challenges. “A Constitution is a living document that must be responsive to the needs of the people. If certain provisions are identified as requiring modification, there is no justification for delaying the process simply because an election is approaching,” he stated.
Criticism of Opposing Voices
Mr. Mweetwa also took a swipe at sections of society that have strongly opposed the proposed constitutional amendments, calling them hypocritical. He pointed out that the same critics did not object when the Constitution was repealed and replaced in 2016, a move that significantly altered Zambia’s governance framework.
He noted that some of those who are now opposing the process were, at the time, in favor of constitutional changes that aligned with their political interests. “We are witnessing a situation where those who benefited from previous constitutional changes are now the loudest voices against amendments. This raises questions about the sincerity of their opposition,” he remarked.
The government spokesperson urged all stakeholders to engage constructively in the constitutional review process, rather than opposing it for political convenience. He emphasized that the government’s approach is centered on transparency, inclusivity, and national interest, rather than partisan gains.
A Call for Constructive Engagement
As the government moves forward with consultations, Mr. Mweetwa reaffirmed that no amendments will be imposed without due process and dialogue. He called on political parties, civil society groups, legal experts, and citizens to actively participate in the discussions and provide meaningful contributions that will strengthen Zambia’s governance system.
He also highlighted that Zambia’s constitutional development has historically been an evolving process, with successive administrations making amendments in response to emerging governance challenges. As such, he urged stakeholders to avoid politicizing the process and instead focus on ensuring that the Constitution serves the best interests of all Zambians.
The proposed amendments have sparked widespread debate, with some political analysts arguing that constitutional changes should be handled carefully to avoid unintended consequences, while others believe that delaying necessary reforms could hinder governance effectiveness.
As discussions continue, the government has assured that it remains open to dialogue and is committed to ensuring that any changes reflect the collective will of the Zambian people.
By Elfie Mwale Shampande
